DVD REVIEWS: The Machinist

"Alfred Hitchcock on steroids" best describes this intense and disturbing psychological thriller from director Brad Anderson (Session 9). But it will likely be remembered as the movie for which actor Christian Bale actually lost a third of his body weight (63 pounds) to play a character who hasn't slept in a year and may well be losing his mind. The bleak, desaturated visuals ratchet up the tension, as does an eerily atmospheric soundtrack anchored by an intentionally Hitchcockian score - the estate of Bernard Herrmann practically deserves royalties. Extras include a director's commentary, eight deleted scenes, and a half-hour documentary. [R] English, Dolby Digital 5.1 and Dolby Surround; letterboxed (2.35:1) and anamorphic widescreen; dual layer.